Things to keep in mind while being part of a PET scan

A
PET scan is risk free and a painless procedure. The pedigree of radioactive
substance used in the scan is limited and the machine does not throw out
radiation. This is when you compare it with the standard radioactive
procedures. Though the injection could cause localized pain with a degree of
swelling, allergic reactions are on the limited side. Before you opt for a PET
scan there are some protocols that you need to be aware.

Dress attire

It
all depends upon the area of your body being scanned you could be asked to
undress fully or partially. To store your belongings a safe locker would be
provided, but a recommended practice would be to leave over your belongings at
your home. In case if you are opting for PET
CT scan in Mumbai
leave metal objects at home because they could have an impact with imaging
results. Artificial implants or pacemaker would not have any influence on
results.

Obesity

A
PET scan ceases to be impossible if you are obese. You might not fit into the
scanning chamber as the machine has a capacity of 450 pounds. Quality of image
is degraded if weight and size is not within prescribed limits. The dose of
radioactive tracer would not be adequate for a quality body image where body
mass increases. You could up in the dose but beyond a prescribed level it could
cause considerable amount of harm. Increase in body mass could pave way for
scattering of radiation diminishing image quality. With multi detector scanners
these issues could be put to rest though efforts are on in full length to
increase diameter of a PET scan machine.

Diabetes

If
you are a diabetic patient you need to ensure that your blood sugar levels are
within 4 to 10 mnol before a test. If blood sugar levels are high, radioactive
tracer would not work on the cells. If insulin levels are high, it would pep up
the radiotracer and results would be off track. If blood sugar levels are not
in control, you might have to discuss with your doctor about any medicines that
you need to consume.

The test phase

The
preparation of a PET test depends upon objectives of a procedure. The main
activity would be to cut down on the levels of sugar or carbohydrate so that
blood sugar levels are normal. This means that the radiotracer works evenly in
your body.

Timing

For
the procedure to be over it may take around 30 to 45 minutes at the most.
Variations are there which could extend to several hours.

In
an ideal scenario you would want to arrive at the test before 30 minutes so
that you settle comfortably. Be on time so that you can receive a radiotracer
an hour before the scan. Later arrivals could complicate schedule as the staff
would be left with no other option rather than schedule for a later date.

Since
you are asked not to eat anything before a procedure, the test is recommended
in the morning hours.

Location

PET
scans are undertaken on an outpatient basis, this means you can head home the
same date after your surgery. In most of the hospitals there is a dedicated
centre for such facilities. The room itself goes by the name of procedure room.

A
patient needs to make their way on to a large machine where in the centre there
is a doughnut shape hole. This is on similar lines as a CT or MRI scan. Into
digital images you transfer signals. A skilled technologist is going to monitor
the entire procedure via a two way speaker they are going to communicate with
you.

Food along with drink

There
are bound to be restrictions on your diet so that blood sugar levels are normal
before a scan. Though specific restrictions in diet might not be suggested but
you might be asked to keep away from high GI foods that pep up your blood sugar
levels. Vegetables devoid of starch along with nuts a rich source of proteins
is recommended.

Before
6 hours when the scan is about to take place you might be asked to stop eating
in total. Though you can drink water and consume most medications which are
suggested. If any medication needs food, discuss with your doctor. Till the
test is complete you might have to delay the dose. On the basis of your glucose
control the doctor may prescribe additional medicines.

Apart
from food you need to stay away from intensive physical activity 24 hours
before the surgery. This would mean any activity that increases your heart
rate. In achieving this can have an impact on your insulin levels and reduce
blood sugar levels.

Things to carry along

Apart
from your identification proof along with health insurance cards, carry along a
magazine which you can read while resting after a radio tracer shot. If your
child is part of a PET CT brain scan in
Mumbai carry along with some toys for their entertainment. Keep away from
action video games as they could become overexcited and blood sugar levels may
rise.

Glucose monitor would be handy if you are suffering from diabetes. Before a scan begins a lab would conduct a test, if you have not had food for some time you would want to check it out yourself.

If
you feel that the procedure makes you nervous listen to some music via
headphones. Just check out whether the scanning room is equipped with music or
audio play stations. If you are expecting a sedative for your procedure just
ask someone to accompany you.

Breastfeeding

If
you are breastfeeding you might like to pump in some milk and keep till the
point radio tracer completely clears from your body. Discuss with your doctor
when you can start the process again. In your breast milk radio tracer could
not cause any harm, no long term research indicate it is not safe.

More Review

Customer care service is the process of taking care of the customer’s needs by providing and delivering them professional, high quality, helpful service and assistance before, during, and after their ...